A popular option is to drive yourself to Marahau – you can rent a car from the Nelson Airport or if you’re here for a longer journey you could hire a campervan.
A popular choice – in between a car and a campervan is a Spaceship. The Barn is a Space Station so if you’re travelling in a Spaceship you can swap DVDs here and get deals on local activities. (Spaceships New Zealand Campervan Hire)

Driving Directions to Abel Tasman

Follow the road signs to the Abel Tasman National Park via Marahau. Marahau is 18km north from Motueka, and is well sign-posted. The Barn is located in Marahau, and is on the right side of the road, 200 metres past the beach. You can’t miss us!

The drive to Marahau is very scenic, with local art, craft and vineyard attractions.

You can leave your car, camper or bicycle at our base. Alternatively, arrange a Bus Pick-Up from your accommodation in Nelson, Motueka or Marahau.

Typical travel times (car):
* Nelson to Marahau = 1 hour, 10 minutes.
* Motueka to Marahau = 25 minutes.

Bus Transport

As Marahau is quite off the beaten track there aren’t many bus options to get you here (the main nationwide services don’t get this far!)

One great option is Stray hop-on hop-off bus network for adventurous travellers – you can jump on Stray at Nelson to get to Marahau or if you have more time you can do one of their longer trips starting from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch. (Stray New Zealand Backpacker Bus)

Another popular option is Adventure Tours New Zealand – this company is a small group, budget tour option for travellers. They have many tour options that stay at The Barn from a five day trip around the Top of the South Island (start in Christchurch or Picton) to a twenty-three day trip around the whole of New Zealand (start in Auckland or Christchurch).

If you want to just travel direct to and from Nelson and Marahau (Abel Tasman) then Abel Tasman Coachlines are probably the best option. See http://www.abeltasmantravel.co.nz/ for more info and timetables.